CVE-2022-20564 is a vulnerability identified in the Android kernel, specifically within the function _ufdt_output_strtab_to_fdt in the source file ufdt_convert.c. The issue arises from an incorrect bounds check that can lead to an out-of-bounds write, classified under CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write). This vulnerability allows a local attacker with existing system execution privileges to escalate their privileges further within the Android operating system. Exploitation does not require any user interaction, which increases the risk of automated or stealthy attacks once local access is obtained. The vulnerability affects the Android kernel, a critical component responsible for managing hardware resources and enforcing security boundaries. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.7 (medium severity), with vector AV:L/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H, indicating that the attack vector is local, requires low attack complexity, high privileges, no user interaction, unchanged scope, and impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability to a high degree. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the potential for privilege escalation could allow attackers to gain full control over affected devices, bypass security controls, and execute arbitrary code at the kernel level. This vulnerability is significant because the kernel is foundational to Android security, and a successful exploit could compromise the entire device, including sensitive user data and system integrity.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-20564 could be substantial, especially for those relying heavily on Android devices for business operations, including mobile workforce management, secure communications, and access to corporate resources. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could escalate privileges on compromised devices, potentially leading to unauthorized access to confidential corporate data, interception of communications, or deployment of persistent malware. This could result in data breaches, intellectual property theft, and disruption of business continuity. The vulnerability's ability to affect confidentiality, integrity, and availability simultaneously makes it particularly dangerous in environments where Android devices are used for critical tasks or contain sensitive information. Furthermore, industries such as finance, healthcare, and government agencies in Europe, which often mandate strict data protection and regulatory compliance, could face legal and reputational consequences if devices are compromised. The lack of required user interaction for exploitation increases the risk of automated attacks within corporate networks or through malicious applications that have gained local execution privileges.

To mitigate CVE-2022-20564 effectively, European organizations should implement the following specific measures: 1) Ensure all Android devices are updated promptly with the latest security patches provided by device manufacturers or Google, as kernel vulnerabilities require vendor-supplied fixes. 2) Employ Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies, control device configurations, and monitor for unusual privilege escalations or kernel-level anomalies. 3) Restrict installation of applications to trusted sources only, minimizing the risk of local privilege escalation via malicious apps. 4) Implement strict access controls and limit local system execution privileges to reduce the attack surface, ensuring that users and applications operate with the least privilege necessary. 5) Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments on mobile devices, including kernel integrity checks and anomaly detection. 6) Educate users about the risks of rooting devices or installing unauthorized software that could facilitate exploitation. 7) For organizations developing Android-based products or custom ROMs, review and harden kernel code, particularly around the ufdt_convert.c component, to prevent similar out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on kernel patch management, privilege restriction, and proactive monitoring tailored to this specific vulnerability.